The United States has launched another strategic move in the energy sector. The US Department of Energy (DOE) has decided to support 11 advanced nuclear reactor projects under the Nuclear Reactor Pilot Program launched during President Trump’s administration.

The US is increasing its investment in nuclear energy.

The companies selected under this program are expected to build, commission, and bring test reactors to critical status by 2026. The projects are part of a process aimed at enhancing the US’s technological superiority in nuclear energy infrastructure and expediting commercial licensing processes in the long term.

All of the selected projects envision testing being conducted outside of national laboratories. This approach aims to expand the role of the private sector and accelerate the maturation and commercialization of reactor technologies.

The DOE has also made it clear that each company will be financially responsible for all processes, including the design, production, construction, operation, and decommissioning of the test reactors. This approach suggests that public funding will be used for regulatory relief and expedited processes rather than direct investment.

Companies participating in the program include Aalo Atomics, Antares Nuclear, Atomic Alchemy, Deep Fission, Last Energy, Oklo, Natura Resources, Radiant Industries, Terrestrial Energy, and Valar Atomics. These test reactors will provide these companies with the opportunity to test their technologies in the real world and make them more attractive to private investors.

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